My family adores a hearty, comforting meal, and this Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is an absolute winner. The aroma that fills the house while it simmers is pure heaven. It’s a simple dish to prepare, but it delivers big on flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights when I crave a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is so adaptable to your family’s preferences; feel free to adjust seasonings or add vegetables as you like. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover beef roast. Just shred it and add it to the slow cooker for the last hour of cooking. The tender noodles soak up all those delicious juices, creating a truly satisfying dish that everyone will love. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love It
This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is a true comfort food classic. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
The beef becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in the rich broth, and the egg noodles cook to perfection, absorbing all those savory flavors. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a lazy weekend, this dish always hits the spot.
Ingredient Lowdown
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make this simple yet satisfying Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles:
- Beef Stew Meat: About 1.5-2 lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, minced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Beef Broth: 32 oz (about 4 cups)
- Egg Noodles: 12 oz (I use wide egg noodles; any variety will work)
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and your favorite seasoning blend (like Kinder’s Woodfire, Mrs. Dash, or similar) – see quantities below
- Worcestershire Sauce: A dash (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Seasoned Meat Tenderizer (optional): Use as directed on the package
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef
In a large bowl, generously season the beef stew meat with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and about 2 tablespoons of your favorite seasoning blend. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to the final dish. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches to ensure even browning.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef (and any accumulated juices) to your slow cooker. Add the minced onion and garlic. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the beef is fully submerged. Season the broth with additional salt, pepper, and another tablespoon of your seasoning blend. Stir everything together, then add a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Give it one last stir.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. The longer it cooks, the more tender it becomes.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles. Continue cooking until the noodles are tender, usually about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the noodles are cooked through, your Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is ready! Ladle into bowls and serve immediately.
Better-Than-Grandma Tips
- Browning the beef: While optional, searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds an extra layer of rich flavor. Don’t skip this step if you can!
- Broth matters: A good quality beef broth is key to a flavorful dish. Use low-sodium if you prefer to control the salt level.
- Noodle timing: Add the noodles towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy. Different noodle types may require slightly different cooking times, so check the package directions.
- Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- For even more slow cooker inspiration, check out our Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe.
Flavor Twists
- Mushrooms: Add a cup of sliced mushrooms along with the onions and garlic for an earthy flavor boost.
- Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots, celery, or potatoes during the last 2 hours of cooking for added nutrients and heartiness.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaf can elevate the flavor profile. Add them during the slow cooking process.
- Creamy Dreamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce. Just add a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
*Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Explore our Dinner Recipes for more mealtime inspiration!
Can I put noodles in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can add noodles to a slow cooker, but it’s best to add them towards the end of the cooking time, about 30 minutes before serving, to prevent them from becoming overcooked.
Can I put raw beef in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can put raw beef directly into a slow cooker. The long, slow cooking process will tenderize the beef beautifully.
Can I put raw noodles in a crockpot?
Yes, raw noodles can be cooked in a crockpot (slow cooker). Just be sure to add enough liquid to cover them, and add them near the end of cooking.
What is the best cut of meat for beef and noodles?
Stew meat, chuck roast, or beef tips are all excellent choices for beef and noodles. These cuts become tender and flavorful during the slow cooking process.
Make It a Meal
This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad, steamed green beans, or crusty bread for dipping in that delicious sauce. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice finishing touch.
This recipe pairs exceptionally well with a simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette. For other meal ideas, check out our Lunch Recipes.
That’s a Wrap
This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is pure comfort in a bowl! The tender beef, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked noodles create a symphony of deliciousness that your whole family will enjoy. I hope this recipe becomes a new weeknight staple in your kitchen. Share your culinary creations with me; I’m always excited to see what you cook up. Find me on social media – I love connecting with fellow food enthusiasts!
Don’t forget to try our Chicken Noodle Soup when you’re craving another comforting classic. Follow Paisley Recipes on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for daily inspiration and recipe ideas!
